UCEDC is a private, non-profit economic development corporation and a US Department of Treasury-designated Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI). Founded in 1977, UCEDC fosters economic growth by providing financial and technical assistance to new and existing businesses, with an emphasis on benefiting underserved people and communities. They offer loan programs ranging from $500 to $5 million, serving as an SBA lender and often assisting borrowers with limited credit history, low-income individuals, and women and minority entrepreneurs. UCEDC also provides entrepreneurial training, mentorship, and free workshops on business and financial literacy. Additionally, their APEX Accelerator (formerly PTAC) assists businesses in navigating the government contracting process. UCEDC operates statewide in New Jersey and serves parts of New York and Pennsylvania.
